Activities
Every school year, international students studying in Saanich participate in organized activities and excursions. While not required, SISP activities and excursions are encouraged to explore other parts of British Columbia and build long lasting friendships. Registration is completed at your school by your school based International Program Assistant or online when trips are provided by our partner, Discover Canada Tours.
The SISP New Student JumpStart Orientation is a 2 day event. Students will be introduced to their school and community and participate in a variety of activities. Students will be involved in several events at their respective schools such as presentations, seminars, tours, games, and assessments. In addition, students will be taken outside of their schools to explore and experience the beautiful Greater Victoria area. Be sure to bring your study permit and a lunch! You will receive your class schedule for semester 1 on day 2.
This 4 hour whale watching trip is hosted by SISP and Prince of Whales Whale Watching. With room for over 80 students, you will view and experience the Pacific ocean and the numerous species of birds and mammals that call it home. Potential whale species to view are Orca and humpback. A marine mammal expert will share facts about the birds and mammals you see.
The 90 foot Catamaran provides warm, dry areas and outdoor viewing decks. The trip departs from Victoria's inner harbour.
Claremont's Screamfest is back for a 14th year! One of the scariest and most fun events in Saanich Schools where Claremont transforms the Large Gym and Theatre into an extravaganza of games/activities/food/and spooky fun for everyone! Screamfest will take over a third of the school with a haunted walk and haunted rooms featuring Claremont theatre students. The dance studio will feature performances by members of the dance program.
Vancouver is a 90 minute ferry ride from Saanich. SISP takes students on an overnight trip to attend an NHL Hockey Game featuring the Vancouver Canucks. Students will also visit Capilano Suspension Bridge and the lively Shipyard District for a panoramic view of the downtown Vancouver skyline. While in the downtown Vancouver area, students also attend the FlyOver Canada IMAX experience. The trip concludes with a driving tour of Stanley Park and some shopping time in Metrotown Mall.
The Trip Includes:
- Coach bus transporation
- Hotel accommodation
- Admission to FlyOver Canada, Capilano Suspension Bridge and a Vancouver Canucks game ticket
The Christmas Dance is a SISP annual traditional in December. Santa Claus makes a guest appearance on the dance floor and at the photobooth! Enjoy a pizza dinner, lively dance floor and some fun games with your fellow international students from Claremont, Parkland and Stelly's.
Whistler, BC was the co-host of the 2010 Winter Olympics and is one of the largest ski/snowboarding resorts in North America. SISP students interested in skiing and snowboarding are welcome join this 3 day, 2 night trip. All levels of skiers/boarders are welcome with experienced Whistler/Blackcomb instructions providing instruction on the slopes. Students will also have time to explore restaurants and the numerous shops in Whistler village.
The Trip Includes:
- Accommodation in Whistler
- Ski/snowboarding equipment rentals if needed
- Lift tickets
- Two full day lessons with a certified Whistler Blackcomb instructor
Mount Washington Alpine Resort is located in the Comox Valley. This is a 1 night and 1 day ski trip including snow tubing and skiing/snowboarding. It is one of the most spectacular coastal alpine settings in North Ameria. Winter has finally arrived at Mount Washington with a huge amount of snowfall building a solid base for our upcoming trip.
Current SISP and semester 2 arriving SISP students must complete the EXPRESSION OF INTEREST form by Friday, January 12 to be included on this trip. Space is limited to 50 students.
The Trip Includes:
Coach Bus Transportation / One night hotel accommodation, 4 students per room / One day lift ticket / Snow tubing ticket /Rental equipment / Certified Mt. Washington staff instructor
This is the inaugural trip to the Yukon for SISP to view the northern lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. An optional half day dog sledding tour will also be available to SISP students on the trip. This trip is currently sold out.
The Trip Includes:
- Ferry transportation to/from Vancouver
- One night accommodation in Tsawwassen. 4 students per room
- Transfer to Vancouver Airport
- Round trip flights from Vancouver to Whitehorse
- Transfer to and from Whitehorse airport
- Tour guide
- Whitehorse city tour
- Two nights accommodation
- Two breakfast, two lunches, and two gourmet dinners
- Winter clothing (boots, pants, parka, gloves and balaclava)
- Aurora Borealis viewing
- Guided snowshoeing and tobogganing
Optional add on ($270)
- Half day dog sledding
The Rocky Mountain Banff trip is for students interested in seeing the Interior, Kootenay and Rocky Mountain regions of British Columbia. The trip highlight is crossing into Alberta through the Rocky Mountains and visiting the tourist town of Banff, Alberta. On the way, students will have an opportunity to visit Lake Louise. If Lake Louise is still frozen, students will even get to walk on it for some amazing picture taking. Seats on this trip are divided equally for Claremont, Parkland and Stelly's students. An expression of interest form will be shared with all SISP students grade 9-12 by the end of February. This is the first step of the registration process for the Rocky Mountain Banff Trip.
The Trip Includes:
- Coach bus transportation
- Experienced tour guide (2 per 50 students)
- Three nights hotel accommodation - one night in Sicamous, two nights in Banff
- Three breakfasts and 1 pizza dinner
- Ticket to the Banff Gondola
- Visit to Lake Louise
- Ferry to and from Vancouver
Click HERE to make the registration for your wonderful trip!
Tofino, BC is a small town located approximately 4 hours northwest of Saanich in Pacific Rim National Park. Students attending this 3 day, 2 night trip, will view some of Canada's most beautiful beaches and pacific northwest scenery. The Pacific Rim National Park is a world renowned tourist destination.
Students will be taken on a half day surfing lesson, and a half day bear watching trip with free time on huge sandy beaches and will stay in a 4/5 star hotel. They will also explore the quiet town of Tofino for some shopping and meals. Finally, an optional hiking excursion is offered.
Check out the 2023 Tofino Trip Video
The school year wraps up with a SISP farewell dance and BBQ for students and staff. A professional DJ provides student requested music for the dance. Dinner is provided by staff so come hungry and ready for some fun.
The registration form for the farewell dance will be posted in your google classroom in May.